Everything You Need To Know About The Demolition Of Old I-74 Bridge

Goodbye, green bridge. It's been one heck of a ride, but we definitely like the new I-74 bridge compared to you. But hey, at least you get to go out with a bang... literally.

Ahead of the demolition of the old I-74 bridge this weekend, officials from the Iowa Department of Transportation announced everything you need to know before things go boom.

On Father's Day, Sunday, June 18th, crews will use controlled explosives to take down the suspension cables and towers on the old I-74 bridge. That means closures for boat traffic, pedestrians, and traffic on the new I-74 bridge for everyone's safety.

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Demolition of the old I-74 bridge will begin as early as 7 a.m. on Sunday morning. By the time your new work week starts, you'll most likely only see small portions of the old bridge left during your morning commute.

River Closed For Old I-74 Demolition

To ensure public safety during this demolition operation, certain areas will be temporarily closed. The main navigation channel in the river will be closed for up to 24 hours, starting at 6 a.m. on June 18. Areas outside the main navigation channel will be closed for up to 72 hours. Local law enforcement will be on-site monitoring the river during the demolition process.

New I-74 Bridge & Pedestrian Traffic Will Be Stopped

The entire new bridge will be closed to traffic for approximately one hour on Sunday morning, with a posted detour in place. Traffic will be routed to I-80 and I-280. Local traffic will be directed to use the Centennial Bridge in Davenport to cross the river and then routed to either downtown Bettendorf to get to westbound I-74 or downtown Moline to get to eastbound I-74. The bike and pedestrian path on the new bridge will be closed for approximately 24 hours beginning the night of June 17 and will be closely monitored by local law enforcement.

Bettendorf's Path On Riverfront Will Be Closed

Residents and visitors in the area are advised to view the Restricted Area Map. Access to this area, including Leach Park in Bettendorf, will be strictly prohibited. Sections of the riverfront path in Bettendorf will be closed. Access to the businesses on State Street and the Isle Casino Hotel will remain open. Additionally, the parking lot adjacent to the new bridge in Bettendorf will be closed to the public.

Don't Try To Watch The Demolition In Person

The public is encouraged to witness the demolition by accessing the project webcams at www.I74RiverBridge.com.

The use of explosives for the westbound bridge cables and towers is anticipated in late summer. For further information and updates on the demolition progress, please visit www.I74RiverBridge.com.